Sensible Stylista: Warmweatherlooks
Showing posts with label Warmweatherlooks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Warmweatherlooks. Show all posts

Shop for a Cause at Elegantees

Excited to feature yet another fabulous piece from Elegantees on SS - clicky if you missed their first post!  This gorgeous summery number is currently available on their site for $55 in both cabana (the color I'm wearing) and grape. Made of a cotton/spandex blend, it has a modest neckline and loose dolman sleeves.  It has a boxy cut throughout, but it comes with a sash so you can change things up if you like.
I don't know if you guys remember, but Elegantees is more than just a cute clothing company.  Their purpose is to provide meaningful employment for women rescued from sex trafficking.  Each elegantee is made in Nepal, and you can meet your sewers here!  Please support them by shopping their site or giving this post a share.  
They've currently ran into a bit of trouble with funding since consumer spending has been down.  It's affected them greatly, and without $ they'll have to let sewers go.  If you'd like to donate to their cause, click here - there are 4 packages available and residents of the US get free shipping.

Option 1:  5 items of your choice for $150 on July 15th
Option 2:  Preview of their Fall collection + 7 pieces of your choice for $275 on August 15th
Option 3: Hassle-free holiday shopping, wrapped gift pieces to 5 friends for $240 on Dec. 1
Option 4: Choose 1 design per month for 2018 for $500
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The Plunging Maxi Dress

If you're a fan of maxi dresses, you'll absolutely love my latest find from Last Call Neiman Marcus.  Designed by Leon Max (aka Max Studio), this goddess-like number features a plunging v neckline with slim bands that cinch one's waist to create a flattering yet comfortable silhouette.  It's food friendly so no sucking in necessary -  I used to LOVE bodycon everything, but lately I'm all about "forgiving" designs.
For today's OOTD, I styled the piece up for date night, but it definitely works as a casual everyday dress as well. I'm wearing a size 2, but I had to get it tailored because it was too big for me - 0 would've been perfect, but it wasn't available.  Definitely size down if you're interested in purchasing this - FYI, it's still available in 2-12 online here!
Other fabulous Max Studio designs:
Showing off my new evening bag!  Isn't it ridiculously cute? I got it from J Wholesale a while back, and I still can't get over how adorbs it is.  I've featured their jewelry on here too many times to count so you guys know all about their baubles, but they sell other high-quality accessories as well including bags, bag charms, belts, phone cases, and more!  Definitely make sure to check out their clutches - I own several and they're super legit.  You're welcome in advance!
 Earrings:  J Wholesale || Dress:  Max Studio via Last Call ($89) || Shoes:  Nine West (similar) || Bag:  J Wholesale
Photos shot by the amazing Sung Shin.
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Casual Summer Dresses FTW

....I totally should've saved this look for the 4th of July, ha.  I couldn't wait that long though - I'm not that patient, and I wanted to feature my new LWD from ASOS sooo here goes.  This summery number is made of oh-so-soft jersey and features a cute bow detail + cutout up front.  The shirred stretch back is comfy so it doesn't pinch and is SUPER flattering.  Dress it up for date night or pair it with sneakers or summery sandals for a casual daytime look.
It was raining out when I shot this so I threw on an old denim jacket from Oasap for extra coverage! I've had this piece for years now, but I'm still obsessed with the lace-up & quilted detailing.  To finish things off and tie everything together, I wore adorable pom-pom shoes from AMICLUBWEAR and carried a mini-crossbody to match.
Other cute LWDs for your shopping ease (under $50):
Obsessed with pom-pom everything...
A closer look at my choker from J Wholesale!  Definitely make sure to check out their jewelry selection for affordable pieces that impress.
Photos shot by the wonderful Sung Shin.
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The Ruffle Miniskirt + Other Affordable Denim Minis Under $30

Excited to tell you guys all about my new skirt from Zara!  I stumbled upon this gem while browsing their "special prices" tab one night and scooped it up almost immediately.  Isn't the design adorable? I couldn't resist the ruffle detailing, plus it was only $14.99 so that helped, ha.  Make sure you guys browse their sale section every couple of days or so to stay on top of fab discounted merchandise.
Adorable denim minis under $30:
For today's OOTD, I paired my new mini with a pretty blush top from Almost Famous Clothing.  I love wearing feminine pieces so this top's naturally a new fave of mine!  Cold shoulder cut-outs and ruffles? Um, yes please.  Also, for those of you wondering, I got my Gucci bag for a fraction of the price on the TJ Maxx website - they sell a bunch of designer bags on there for less so keep your eyes peeled.
Top:  Almost Famous Clothing || Skirt:  Zara (similar) || Bag:  Gucci || Shoes:  Nine West
Photos shot by the fabulous Veronica Campbell of Voulez Boudoir.
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Boo's Bday Gift To Me + Bamf $12.99 Slip-ons (!!!)

Featuring yet another fabulous dress from Almost Famous - I styled a cute floral number here yesterday ICYMI. Apparently, pale dogwood (aka a muted pink) is all the rage this spring/summer, and although I'm not one to follow trends, this works for me because I love everything blush...which I why I paired my shift with matching slip-ons, ha.
Similar dresses that won't break the bank (all under $50):
My dress has a ton of cute detailing, but I still wanted to have some fun and spice things up with accessories! Here's a close up shot of my new bag courtesy of the bf - we started seeing each other 7 or so months ago.  He lives in cali so it's lonnnnng distance, but the struggle's so worth it.  I've honestly never been happier - when you find the right person, you just know.
Anddd I totally got off topic, ha!  I was telling you guys about my bag before I started gushing about my #mce.  Ok, so let's get to it.  The bag's currently on sale at the Kate Spade site for $279 (originally $398), and although it's not a classic design, it really does go well with different outfits for varying occasions.  Plus, there's a TON of space inside, the strap's detachable...and it has an adorable monkey with a rose on the front.  I mean, come on, how could one resist?  
Dress:  Almost Famous || Bag:  Kate Spade || Shoes:  Amiclubwear ($12.99) || Earrings:  J Wholesale
Photography by the amazing Veronica Campbell of Voulez Boudoir.
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Remix: The Floral Denim Jacket

Lots to talk about today so let's get to it!  As you can see by the title, I'm remixing my current fave denim jacket for you guys - I featured it HERE a while back and styled it with an LWD with beige sandals for a casual summery ensemble.  Although I enjoyed the aforementioned pairing, I wanted to fully embrace my inner girly girl and wear it with a pink floral dress to match.
I didn't want to overpower my florals with loud accessories so I went with beige shoes and a neutral crossbody bag courtesy of Mobovida.  This adorable crossbody, made of premium pebble grain leather, doubles as a fanny pack with charging capabilities.  The piece comes with a portable battery, a headphone hole, and a padded phone slot - also, the belt's adjustable so you can wear it however you so desire!  Available in two other colors, camel and black, and in size small in addition to the large I'm wearing.
Other adorable denim jackets for your browsing pleasure:
I'm obsessed with Almost Famous clothing for real!  I seriously can't get enough of their clothes - they're cute yet affordable and their designers always stay on top of the hottest trends.  Think of them as a super upscale Forever 21 with better pricing, ha.  Have any of you guys shopped their site?  If yes, what do you think?
Bag:  Mobovida || Shoes:  Amiclubwear (similar) || Dress:  Almost Famous (similar) || Jacket:  Blank NYC
Photos shot by the wonderful Veronica Campbell of Voulez Boudoir.
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Gainesville, FL Recap + A Goddess-Like Maxi On Sale

Alright guys, if you've been following me on IG, you know by now that I spent the last week or so in Gainesville, FL for concerts with my buddy Stephen Fine - we were both faculty members at a summer music festival a while back.  We hadn't seen each other for the last 3 years so I was beyond stoked when he invited me to come perform!  We had 3 performances lined up, featuring tough repertoire so we spent pretty much every minute of our time together rehearsing.  We tackled Brahms' f minor sonata for piano and viola, Britten's Lachrymae, and a virtuosic number by Zimbalist called "Tango" from Sarasateana.

I'd never been to Gainesville prior to this trip so I didn't really know what to expect, BUT I was pleasantly surprised.  They actually had better asian food than Baltimore - I know that sounds cray, but I'm being 100% real with you all!  Anywho, I didn't get to take pictures of my noms, but I'm still gonna recap everything for you guys, just in case you visit in the future.
Yummy House:  I was craving Chinese so Stephen and I came here twice, haha.  I got to try their Braised Tofu (comes with perfectly cooked bok choy + mushrooms), Garlic Chicken, Salt n' Pepper Tofu (no veggies here), pork buns (this was the most "eh" of the bunch), and pork + mushroom dumplings. Everything was good, but the Salt n' Pepper Tofu stands out so DEF. try this if you come here - apparently, it's a chain in FL so you could come across one in a different city?  If you hit up the location in Gainesville, save room because there's a Kung Fu Tea right next door, and boba's always a do in my book.  FYI, they charge for rice which pisses me off - IMO, no asian restaurant should charge for rice.  It's only a dollar per bowl, but I still wanted to mention it, ha.

Crane Ramen:  A hip joint with delish housemade noodles!  I ordered the Agedashi Tofu Steamed Buns (soy-marinated tofu, wrapped in nori and flash-fried with sweet potato sauce) and the Tonkotsu ramen ($12.95).  The tofu was a little bland, but hot chili oil took care of that fast!  The ramen was yum - came with pork belly, woodear mushrooms, house hot sauce, soy-marinated egg, black garlic oil and scallions - but the broth was a bit too salty for me personally!  However, I enjoyed the noodles and the house hot sauce immensely.  

The Hyppo:  Soooo gourmet popsicles are a thing in FL! I haven't had one in AGES, and I didn't even know they could be "gourmet," so I was skeptical when Stephen suggested it, but I've learned to trust his judgement.  They had at least 30 different flavors, and they all looked AMAZING.  It took me a good 5 minutes to decide, but I ultimately went with blueberry cheesecake (!!!!!) I can't even begin to tell you guys how much I loved that ice-pop. Their noms are all natural, featuring ingredients that are non-GMO and are made fresh daily so they get an A+++ from me.  

Civilization:  Hands down, one of the coolest places I've ever been to.  Their menu's super eclectic, and they source their produce from local growers, which is all kinds of awesomesauce.  I ordered Shrimp 'n Grits and a Ginger Beer and loved everything!  If I had 3 more stomachs, I would've also tried the Sweet Potato Enchiladas, Gnocchi della Casa, and Falafel Burger.  I guess that just means I need to go back... and eat? Ha.

Public & General:  Julie, Stephen's sister, generously took us out to eat after our first concert at University of Florida.  Their name's a reference to their bar in the back + their convenience store up front.  They're kind of like Cracker Barrel except way, WAY better, like there's no comparison.  I ordered the BBQ Mushroom Sandwich (topped with coleslaw, which upped the texture tenfold), dill fries with roasted tomato mayo, and a yummy cider! Service was kind of slow, but the food was worth the wait.  Plus, I was in good company - I had fun chatting with Julie and her boyfriend Tyler - so I didn't mind. She's a lawyer and he's a golf teacher by day, but they manage a super successful instagram account called Best of Gainesville at night!  You can check them out here.
Gainesville was nothing like I imagined, and I mean that in the best way possible.  A huge thanks to the Fine family for being such wonderful hosts - I hope to see you all again soon!  Now, onto today's featured OOTD!  I recently purchased this goddess-like maxi dress online at Las Call for $75, and I seriously can't get enough of it.  It's perfect for summer because it's sexy yet elegant.  I love showing bits of skin tastefully, and this number allows me to do so.  I ordered it in size small, but it was too big so I had to return + re-purchase in xs.  Click HERE to purchase!
It has an a-line silhouette so you can comfortably nurse a food baby while looking effortlessly stylish. I highly recommend this dress because it works for any and every occasion.  Dress it up with a clutch and heels for date night or wear it with summery sandals and an everyday tote to run errands in style. 
 A huge thanks to blogger bestie La Belle Mel for shooting these pics.
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My Latest Bargain Find from ASOS: The $24 Maxi (Originally $122)

I seriously don't know what I'd do without ASOS.  I buy 90% of my stuff from their site because they have kickass customer service and a ginormous online collection.  Every time I get my browse on, I end up purchasing something...which is great for my wardrobe but not so great for my wallet, ha.  I stumbled upon this adorable orange maxi by chance and instantly fell in love with the lace + wrap bodice.  As you guys know, I'm a sucker for all things girly and feminine so when I saw the $24 markdown (originally $122), I knew I had to have it!
Unfortunately, I believe they're almost out of these babies - there might be a couple of 2's left though? Click HERE to double check.  For those of you interested, here are other cute + affordable options (all under $50):
The solid peeps at Asos marketed this number as a "wedding" dress, perhaps for guests or even bridesmaids, but I think it works beautifully as an everyday dress as well.  It IS on the fancier side, but hey, there's nothing wrong with getting your glam on the regular.  For today's post, I styled it with a beautiful headpiece from Headbands of Hope, but I'd probably just throw my hair up in a bun if in a rush.  BTW, I don't know if you guys remember, but I featured HOH on here a long while back.  My blogger bestie La Belle Mel shot pics of me wearing a fab floral crown - click here if you missed it! Anywho, that's it for today!  Make sure you guys check back early tomorrow for more. 
A huge thanks to the wonderful Hana Gonzalez Photography for shooting these gorg photos!
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Find of the Day: The Perfect Everyday T-Shirt Dress

It's time for another find, everyone!  For those of you looking for comfy dresses to wear on the daily, this number's an absolute must-have.  Personally, I don't believe in pants even though I wear them from time to time. I've always been a huge dress + skirt girl because they're cute and ridiculously comfortable.  This t-shirt dress oozes steeze!  Made of soft-touch jersey, it has dropped shoulders and a corset that'll conveniently highlight the small of your waist aka create the illusion of an hourglass figure without the gym, ha.  Wear it with wedges or simple sneakers for an effortlessly stylish ensemble.  Available for purchase HERE!
A closer look at my dress!  Isn't the lace up detailing adorable?
I know I've featured these shoes a billion times on here already, but I don't care.  They're uber fashionable and go with pretty much everything I own.  I also really love that they're velcro, ha.  I don't know about you guys, but I HATE lacing heels up.  I'll obviously do it if I have to, but I'll complain while doing so.  Purchase these babies HERE online at Guilty Soles!
Anddd the mini-backpack that won't quit!  Violet Ray can do no wrong.  Their designs are always on point, and I can't wait to see what they release next.  Unfortunately, I don't have a shoppable link for you guys, but I believe this bag's available at Ross.  Hopefully you'll have one close to you?  If not, here's another VR design that I can't get enough of - I featured it here a while back in case you're interested.  
Backpack:  Violet Ray || Dress: Asos ($30) || Shoes:  Guilty Soles || Sunnies:  Coach Factory
Photos shot by the amazing La Belle Mel.
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The Most Kickass Top I Own

Yet another fabulous find from ASOS - albeit pricier than my normal buys, this top was SO worth the $$$.  I don't know about you guys, but I'm a HUGE fan of the whole statement sleeve trend.  I'm not one to jump on "what's hot," but I can't seem to resist this bamf silhouette.
Everything about this top is a do in my book.  Some kickass features include extreme flared cuffs, a square neckline, a cold-shoulder design and a zip-back closure.  Made of a polyester, viscose, and elastane blend, this piece will seriously break necks left and right!  I paired it with comfy track pants for a more laid-back vibe, but you can totally dress this baby up.  What do you guys think of this top - is it a yah or a nah?  If you're a fan, how would you style this?
 Top:  ASOS ($57) || Pants:  Kohl's (similar) || Shoes:  Guilty Soles || Bag:  YSL
Photographed by the amazing Sung Shin.
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The Perfect Spring Romper + Giveaway: Wearing My Latest FOTD on SS

Beyond pumped to finally style this romper for you guys on SS - ICYMI, I blogged about it here as a "find of the day" a while back.  It's currently available on the amiclubwear website for $18 (originally $39.99), which is a pretty good deal for what you're getting IMO.  I own it in small (which still works), but XS would've been perfect; unfortunately, that size is unavailable [insert sad face].  

If you're well-endowed up top (think c cup +), this number will flatter your bod especially well. Also, I love that it comes with a waist + neck tie.  I personally don't use the neckpiece, but you have the option of doing so which is cool!  For those of you interested, it's also available in medium and large.
As I'm sure you all know, I'm all about chic, feminine everyday looks.  So, for today's featured outfit of the day, I kept things clean and simple because I wanted my florals to take centerstage - I paired the romper with neutral accessories and called it a day!  I absolutely love wearing nude sandals because they (very conveniently) elongate my stems.  I had the option of carrying a more colorful bag, but I wanted to stick with something classic for my latest.
Other fabulous rompers under $50:
Romper:  amiclubwear ($18) || Shoes:  Steve Madden (similar) || Bag:  Chloe (similar)
Photos shot by the amazing Sung Shin.  One last thing before I go, Amiclubwear's generously offered to give one lucky SS reader a $50 gift card (open internationally).  All you have to do to enter is follow them on instagram! As always, there are several bonus entries to help up your chances of winning so make sure you take advantage - giveaway ends on June 14th!  Good luck, everyone.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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